The Jets’ defence looked set to struggle against Denver’s run game. Broncos running back JK Dobbins came in fifth in the league for rushing yards (402) while the Jets had conceded an average of 31.4 points (second most) and 140 rushing yards per game (sixth most).
The Jets also became the first team not to claim a single takeaway in their first five games of the season, since the NFL began tracking turnovers in 1933.
But it was the Jets’ defence and special teams unit that stepped up at Tottenham, accounting for eight of their 11 points.
They ended their turnover drought with a fumble recovery on the game’s very first drive before making a 72-yard kick-off return, which set up two field goals.
The Jets then forced Denver to punt on five of their next six possessions and earned a safety on the other, before the Broncos could finally do some damage on the ground to earn what proved to be the game-winning field goal.
It is testimony to the Jets’ defence that they almost won despite earning just 82 yards on offence and -10 passing yards, as they lost 55 yards as a result of the nine sacks. It was their offensive line that was found wanting on this occasion.
New head coach Glenn is getting close to his first win. Four of the Jets’ six defeats have been one-score games. But he needs some semblance of an all-round team performance if they are to finally get over the hump.
Glenn said that, in certain moments, Fields should have released the ball sooner.
“This is probably our best game on defence, but our passing game was non-existent,” Glenn said. “When you have a team that pressures that much and plays that much man coverage, sometimes you’ve just got to give your guys a chance to win a one-on-one.
“It’s tough being close. That’s been something we talk about, how we finish. So we’ve got to keep building on the positives that we’ve shown and keep working.”